Pakistani umpire Saleema Imtiaz has created history by becoming the first woman from Pakistan to officiate at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. This achievement marks another major milestone in her long umpiring career.
Saleema’s appointment is being seen as an important moment for women’s cricket in Pakistan. It also highlights growing opportunities for female match officials in international cricket.
In September 2024, Saleema Imtiaz became Pakistan’s first female umpire to join the ICC International Development Panel. That appointment opened the door for her latest role at the T20 World Cup.
Saleema Imtiaz said she felt proud to represent Pakistan at one of the biggest events in women’s cricket. She described her selection as a historic moment for herself and the country.
She thanked her family and the Pakistan Cricket Board for their support. She said their encouragement helped her reach this stage.
Saleema also said she hopes her journey will inspire more girls in Pakistan. She encouraged young women to consider cricket as both players and match officials.
Saleema joined the tournament as a replacement for Lauren Agenberg. Soon after, she took on several important roles during the T20 World Cup.
Her first assignment was as fourth umpire in the India versus South Africa match at Old Trafford on June 21.
She later made her on-field T20 World Cup debut in the New Zealand versus Scotland match in Bristol. On the same day, she also served as TV umpire in the Sri Lanka versus Ireland game.
Saleema later officiated in the India versus Bangladesh match at Old Trafford. Her remaining duties include the England versus New Zealand match at The Oval as TV umpire. She will also serve as fourth umpire for Australia versus India at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Saleema began her umpiring career in 2008 with the Pakistan Cricket Board’s women’s panel. Since then, she has officiated in nine Women’s ODIs and 58 Women’s T20 Internationals.
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Her latest achievement is being celebrated as a big step for women in Pakistani cricket.
